Greenville County schools are dealing with a string of bogus bomb threats in recent weeks.

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According to district spokesman Oby Lyles, eight threats have been reported since April 26 at Woodmont Middle School, J.L. Mann High School, Berea High School, Blue Ridge High School and Blue Ridge Middle School.

In each case, the schools have been temporarily evacuated.

"I think a lot of times students think, 'Well, let's just get out of school,' and they just don't understand the serious nature of what they're doing," Lyles said.

Lyles said the threats appear to be attempts to get out of class. He said any classes missed because of an evacuation can be rescheduled by the school principal.

The Greenville County Sheriff's Office said three girls, ages 13 and 12, have been charged in connection with bomb threats at Woodmont Middle School and Blue Ridge Middle School.

Deputies said the charge of communicating threats to use an explosive device carries up to 10 years in prison for both adults and juveniles.

Lyles said students who are caught making the threats face an automatic suspension and recommendation for expulsion.

"It's a pretty scary thing when you have to spend the night in jail for a bomb threat, but it can happen," he said.

For parents of students at Blue Ridge High School, where two threats have been made, emotions range from fear and anger to annoyance.

"I don't feel safe sending my daughter to school. She's a junior, and a lot of other parents are starting to feel that way," said father David Smith.

Amanda Williams, a parent who said she never thought the threats were anything more than pranks, said she hopes the young people will consider the consequences of getting caught.

"You're giving up too much of your time and your life, and it's scaring other people and their parents," Williams said.